All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

This afternoon, I dropped off my oldest son - Zach (18) - to Hillsdale College.  There is challenge here for both Zach and myself as we both begin new chapters in our lives.  For me, it is a time of loss, not so much in a bad way, but a time when I will miss seeing him daily.  For Zach, I can sense nervousness, anxiety, and excitement - all at once.  As I just finished a book by John Piper - Holy Ambition - I thought about what next to study as the basis for my daily reading and study of God's Word.  I found my recent study of Romans - using the Christ-Centered Exposition series - to be of great value, so I went to review the available commentaries with this series and instantly "stumbled" upon the volume for Leviticus - I felt immediately called to jump into this volume and book, knowing full well that Leviticus by many is recognized as one of the most challenging books of the Bible. I was thinking of what I could say to encourage Zach to jump into challenges and I suppose this is God's way of saying - "this is how".   Zach: don't run from challenge, instead, jump into it. It reminds of me of the time I went bungy jumping - here we go!

For today, I read the Introduction and key takeaways include why it is important to read Leviticus.  My commentary describes five (5) key reasons:

1. Leviticus describes entire religious system of Israel (how they were to worship). Our understanding of worship during ancient Israel's time is important context for understanding of the entire Bible.
2. Leviticus provides the theological foundation for the atoning work of Christ. 
3. Leviticus demonstrates how important holiness is to God - this is the main theme of the book.
   
4. Leviticus is the direct Word of God to Moses, Aaron, and Israel - we should always pay attention to the direct words of God.
5. The New Testament frequently references Leviticus and assumes knowledge of Leviticus. 

Comment and discuss this post here.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God and I know You love me and provide for me - always!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You bless me and provide for me.  I sin...daily...and my sin is great and it continues.  Please forgive me for my worry and other sins.  Help me turn from and overcome my sin and turn to You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.